As of 2001 India census,[3] Papanasam had a population of 16,397. Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. Papanasam has an average literacy rate of 76%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 82%, and female literacy is 70%. In Papanasam, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age.

There are three major temples, Pallaivanatha Swamy temple constructed by the Cholas, Srinivasa Perumal Temple and 108 Sivalayam temple. A granary measuring 86 feet (26 m) in width and 36 feet (11 m) in height constructed by Nayaks between 1600–1634 has been declared by the State Archaeological Department as a protected monument.